The fear of the Lord our days will prolong
In trouble afford a confidence strong
Will keep us from sinning will prosper our ways
And is the beginning of wisdom and grace
The fear of the Lord preserves us from death
Enforces his word enlivens our faith
It regulates passion and helps us to quell
The dread of damnation and terrors of hell
The fear of the Lord is soundness and health
A treasure well stored with heavenly wealth
A fence against evil by which we resist
World flesh and the devil and imitate Christ
The fear of the Lord is clean and approved
Makes Satan abhorred and Jesus beloved
It conquers in weakness; is proof against strife
A cordial in sickness; a fountain of life
The fear of the Lord is lowly and meek
The happy reward of all that him seek
They only that fear him the truth can discern
For living so near him his secrets they learn
The fear of the Lord his mercy makes dear
His judgments adored his righteousness clear
Without its fresh flavor in knowledge there's fault
In doctrines no savor in duties no salt
The fear of the Lord confirms a good hope
By this are restored the senses that droop
The deeper it reaches the more the soul thrives
It gives what it teaches and guards what it gives
The fear of the Lord forbids us to yield
It sharpens our sword and strengthens our shield
Then cry we to heaven with one loud accord
That to us be given the fear of the Lord